Health is Wealth

Down Syndrome Is Most Common In Women Under 35, But Why?

A child with Down Syndrome is pictured during an event marking the International Day of Down Syndrome in Bucharest March 21, 2013. March 21 aims to raise awareness among the population regarding people with Down syndrome and combat some wrong social perceptions, depriving these people of their right to an active life. AFP PHOTO / DANIEL MIHAILESCU (Photo credit should read DANIEL MIHAILESCU/AFP/Getty Images)

All of these changes in birth rates and quality of life for people living with Down syndrome suggest that even if you don’t have a child with Down syndrome, it’s likely that you and your children will interact with children and adults with Down syndrome. As Dr. Baumer and Dr. Davidson explain:

Research has shown that inclusive philosophy improves the lives of children with and without disabilities and help raise awareness and acceptance of those with differences and diversity. Parents of children with and without Down syndrome can help their children develop friendships by including classmates in birthday parties, outings, and playdates.

For example, it’s helpful to be aware of preferred language when discussing Down syndrome in order to help model thoughtful language when interacting with people with Down syndrome. The National Down Syndrome Society’s Guide for preferred language offers several tips for sensitivity, including using Person-First Language, meaning, for example, that a child with Down syndrome should not be referred to as a “Down syndrome child,” but rather “a child with Down syndrome.” They also recommend not referring to the disorder as “Down’s” but rather by the full name: Down syndrome. Furthermore, they remind that the terminology of “mental retardation” has been replaced by “cognitive disability” or “intellectual disability.”